The quest to find the meaning of life has been a lifelong journey for many. It’s a pursuit that is universal, and yet deeply personal. While people often search for answers in books and lectures, sometimes the deepest words of wisdom come from unexpected sources.
One such source of wisdom is the famous philosopher, Aristotle. He believed that the purpose of life is to achieve happiness, and to do so we must cultivate virtues such as courage, justice, and wisdom. These virtues are not only essential for a life well-lived, but they also help us to connect with others and find purpose in our relationships with them.
The Japanese have a word, ‘ikigai’, which roughly translates to ‘reason for being’. This concept has gained popularity as a way of discovering what gives our lives meaning. It involves finding the intersection between what we’re good at, what we enjoy, what the world needs, and what we can be paid for. When we find our ikigai, we’re able to live a fulfilling life that aligns with our values.
Another way to find meaning in life is to connect with nature. Spending time in natural environments has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote feelings of awe and wonder. In fact, research has shown that people who regularly engage in ‘nature therapy’ experience significant improvements in their overall sense of well-being.
Perhaps the most profound source of wisdom on the meaning of life comes from those who are facing their own mortality. People who are nearing the end of their lives often reflect on what truly matters, and their insights can be incredibly powerful. Many report feeling an increased sense of appreciation for the relationships they have, and a sense of regret for not having spent more time cultivating those relationships.
The search for meaning in life is a lifelong pursuit, and there are no easy answers. However, by cultivating virtues, discovering our ikigai, connecting with nature, and learning from those who are facing their own mortality, we can begin to uncover the deep words of wisdom that will guide us on our journey. Ultimately, it’s up to each of us to discover what gives our lives meaning, and live in a way that aligns with those values.
